Chief fire officer Chris Kenny said: “We’ve made excellent progress in reducing the Winter Hill wildfire and the vital infrastructure and properties in the area have been successfully protected.

“We’re operating in an area around 18 square km in size but have been able to contain the fire to approximately 8 square km. We have good control lines in place in the form of trenches that have been dug around the site and back burning has been done in places to stop the fire spreading and protect areas of high risk.

“A change in wind direction could alter our plans but at present we are able to reduce the response, while still monitoring for flare-ups and maintaining control lines. We continue to douse the moors with water by land and air.

“Although the fire is currently under control, the incident remains protracted and demanding, and we expect to be present for several days yet.

“Working closely with our partners and voluntary agencies, the fire has been brought under control despite very challenging conditions. The response by everyone involved has been tremendous, and we have been greatly supported by the local community.

“I’d particularly like to thank local businesses who have supported employees who also work for Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service as retained firefighters, in allowing them to provide a sustained response, and those near to the scene that are experiencing disruption. I’m grateful for their patience and co-operation.

“Please continue to stay away from the area, to allow us to maintain the good progress we’ve made and return Winter Hill to normality as soon as possible.”

Roads around Winter Hill remain closed to the public although the fire service said the San Marino restaurant in Belmont Road is now back open for business and can be accessed via Longworth Road and Egerton Road.